“If you don’t mind, sir, I’d like to keep it a little longer. Those are my orders, sir⁠—there’s a little matter we’re clearing up just now⁠—”

“Just so. Certainly, Inspector. As long as you like.”

“Thank you, sir. And as I take it, sir, none of your household has seen anything of this article since you lent it to Mr. Egerton?”

“As far as I know, no one⁠—I certainly haven’t seen it myself. In fact, I was looking for it only the other day.”

The Inspector thought obviously for a moment, and obviously decided to say no more. “Well, that’s all, sir, and thank you.”